Between the mountain and the river

West End Big Band & Syrian Big Band Soloists: A Fusion of Cultures

This project aims to blend Syrian and Western musical traditions into a unique and exciting program. It includes traditional Syrian music specially arranged for big bands. A successful tryout in June left us inspired and eager to share this fusion with you.

The Syrian Big Band, founded in 2005, developed its own distinctive repertoire while delving into the world of jazz. By collaborating with international composers, they’ve successfully merged Syrian and Arabic musical traditions with big band jazz. In 2011, the group underwent a transformation, embarking on global collaborations with esteemed artists like Dutch trumpet player Gerard Kleijn. It was Gerard’s connection with the West End Big Band that inspired this exciting fusion. The Syrian Big Band expanded to Europe in 2012, and has since led to partnerships with renowned big bands across the globe. Their performances, including at the Elb Philharmonie in Hamburg with the NDR Big Band and appearances at the North Sea Jazz Festival, have showcased their limitless musical exploration. Don’t miss this fusion of musical traditions that promises to be a unique and captivating experience. The program will not only feature jazz standards but also showcase Oriental soloists joining forces with the West End Big Band, creating an unforgettable fusion of musical cultures.

About West End Big Band:
The West End Big Band, led by trumpet player Gerard Kleijn, has been a fixture in Amsterdam’s musical landscape for four decades. This 18-piece ensemble is renowned for its instrumental expertise, offering a musical journey spanning a century of jazz and pop music. With the exceptional vocalist Dieke van Hoften, they perform regularly in various venues and at festivals, play concerts for Lindy Hop dancers, and organize performances with young talented soloists.

West End Big Band:
Conductor: Gerard Kleijn
Saxophones: Marten Japenga, Marga de Rooij, Guus van der Meer, Yond Boeke, Connor Sattely
Trumpets: Jeanette Scholder, Jos van der Park, Romain Gachot, Jasper de Jonge
Trombones: Gertjan Huiskes, Zach Malsom, Hans Kolfschoten, Pieter Jongert
Rhythm: Yiorgos Bereris (piano), Murdoch Bentvelzen (guitar), Philip Beerendonk (bass), Tim Ouw (drums)
Guest Guitarist: Hannibal Saad

Conductor: Gerard Kleijn
Saxophones: Marten Japenga, Marga de Rooij, Guus van der Meer, Yond Boeke, Connor Sattely
Trumpets: Jeanette Scholder, Jos van der Park, Romain Gachot, Jasper de Jonge
Trombones: Gertjan Huiskes, Zach Malsom, Hans Kolfschoten, Pieter Jongert
Piano: Yiorgos Bereris
Guitar: Murdoch Bentvelzen
Bass: Philip Beerendonk
Drums: Tim Ouw
Hannibal Saad Guest guitar player.

Artists bios:
Amel Sdiri is a versatile professional singer from Brussels, specialized in lyrical singing, with a degree in Music and Musicology from the Higher Institute of Music in Tunis. She is currently studying at the Royal Conservatory of Brussels and the Vrije Universiteit Brussel.

Kinan Abuakel: Kinan Abuakel, a virtuoso musician and dedicated music educator, is celebrated for his mastery of the Buzuq. He has performed with renowned orchestras and gained recognition for his musical skills

Oene van Geel is a versatile artist, known for his roles as a composer, improvising violist, and a passionate advocate for climate awareness and the plight of refugees. His musical journey is a rich tapestry of influences, blending elements of jazz, Indian music, chamber music, and free improvisation. With a wide range of ensembles and collaborations, he has toured the globe, leaving a trail of artistic excellence. Oene has received numerous accolades, including the VPRO Boy Edgar Prize and the Sena Performers Toonzetters Prize, and is a prolific composer for music theater and chamber music, with works featured in renowned institutions and festivals. His dedication to cross-art productions and his commitment to using the power of art to bring people together and inspire positive change make Oene van Geel a true artistic adventurer.

Yiorgos Bereris will join this Big Band project. Yiorgos Bereris, a contemporary pianist, accordionist, and composer, embarks on a musical journey inspired by jazz and Balkan traditions. His music is a mesmerizing exploration of innovative pathways.